The softball team will attempt to build off momentum from its first conference victory when hosting Eastern Michigan in a three-game series this weekend.
The Eagles (3-18, 1-4 Mid-American Conference) are in desperate need of a win after losing four of their last five games. The opening doubleheader of the series is set for 1 p.m. Saturday at the Ball State Softball Complex.
Ball State (5-12-1, 1-3-1) put together an impressive offensive performance, posting a season-high eight runs and 17 hits en route to a victory Wednesday at Ohio.
Quicker pitching adjustments, consistent hitting and a more aggressive mentality at the plate helped the team get back in the win column, head coach Terri Laux said.
Although Eastern Michigan only has three wins to date, the team's record may be a little bit deceiving. The Eagles have pulled off two road upsets over major Division I opponents this season -- at Texas A&M on Feb. 28 and at Indiana on March 15.
"I think anybody can beat anybody on a given day," coach Laux said. "We try not to focus so much on that, but on what we need to do to be successful. I think if we play solid, fundamental softball, we will be successful."
Pitchers Amy Brownfield and Nicki Hellam will likely start two of the three games against Eastern Michigan. Fellow hurlers, Quincy Duran and Cortney Winger pitched complete games for the Cardinals Wednesday.
Neither pitcher would be a prime candidate in long relief situations, as they will be recuperating from extended action.
The team's class of five freshmen has had its work cut out for it this year due to expectations being so high, Laux said.
Because of injuries and the group's perceived talent level, the newcomers have played larger roles early in their collegiate careers.
"Initially, bringing these kids in, we knew they had a lot of potential," Laux added. "Everyone else has maintained and kind of grown in their roles. The freshmen have really had to step up quickly."-á-á
Ball State leadoff hitter Kris Burdine will look to continue her red-hot campaign versus the Eagles. She is second on the team in several hitting categories behind 2002 MAC Player of the Year Katie Shea.
Burdine has tallied 21 hits, seven runs batted in, five doubles and maintained a .344 batting average over the course of the first 18 games of the season.
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